CHRNA10
Description
The CHRNA10 (cholinergic receptor nicotinic alpha 10 subunit) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 11.
The CHRNA10 gene encodes the neuronal acetylcholine receptor subunit alpha-10 (nAChRα10), a key component of certain nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. This subunit is essential for the normal functioning of the olivocochlear system, a part of the auditory system. The α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor is blocked by the conotoxin RgIA, which has shown analgesic effects in an animal model of nerve injury pain. Interestingly, nicotine also blocks receptors containing the α10 subunit, although the implications of this antagonism in tobacco effects remain unclear.
This ionotropic receptor is likely involved in modulating auditory stimuli. Upon agonist binding, the receptor undergoes a conformational change affecting all its subunits, opening an ion-conducting channel across the cell membrane. This channel allows a range of divalent cations, including calcium, to pass through. The influx of calcium can trigger a potassium current, leading to hyperpolarization of the cell membrane. In the ear, this hyperpolarization might decrease basilar membrane movement, influencing the activity of auditory nerve fibers and reducing dynamic hearing range. This mechanism could offer protection against acoustic trauma.
CHRNA10 is also known as -.
